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HPA Axis Activity

Meaning

HPA Axis Activity refers to the functional status of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal axis, a major neuroendocrine system that governs the body’s adaptive response to stress and regulates numerous physiological processes, including metabolism, immunity, and mood. Clinical assessment of this activity measures the cyclical and reactive secretion of hormones like Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone (CRH), Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH), and cortisol. Dysregulation of the HPA axis is a central feature of chronic stress and many age-related disorders.